McClusky is the county seat of Sheridan County in North Dakota, United States of America.
McClusky is the closest town to the geographical center of North Dakota, which lies about five miles to the southwest, thus its nickname “Heart of North Dakota.”
Located on Highway 200, McClusky is approximately 70 miles NE of Bismarck, and 90 miles SE of Minot.
We invite you to visit us, to enjoy our parks, swimming pool, Hoffer Lake and local events. The town has a friendly, welcoming atmosphere, plenty of clean air, quality schools, healthcare, business opportunities, and a variety of recreational activities.
History
In 1902, in anticipation of the Northern Pacific Railroad moving westward from Denhoff, William Henderson McClusky purchased sections of land west of the town’s present area. He hoped it would become a railroad town site, and gave the site his own name.
During the spring of 1905, agents of the Northern Pacific Railroad purchased the present site of McClusky and laid out the town. As a result, the settlement sponsored by McClusky was abandoned and the settlement moved to the railroad town site.
McClusky’s growth was rapid in the early years, reaching a peak population of 924 by 1940. Like many small communities, the population began dwindling after WW II.
In 1970, construction began on the McClusky Canal, creating a growth spurt not seen since the early settlement days. After the completion of the canal in 1984, the population again began decreasing.
The population of McClusky was 380 at the 2010 census.
Tourism and Recreation
McClusky is a quiet, clean and wholesome place to live and work. It is also a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
- Fishing and Boating is a favorite activity of both locals and visitors. Both the McClusky Canal and Hoffer Lake supply a variety of fish: walleye, smallmouth bass, northern pike, perch and panfish.
- Bird watching around McClusky is a relaxing and rewarding experience. North Dakota is part of the migratory bird flyways, and a large variety of waterfowl and songbirds can be observed. We are also home to many non-migratory birds such as pheasants, hawks and grouse.
- Hiking, horseback riding & mountain biking can be enjoyed on the North Country Trail which runs through Sheridan County. Many bicyclists also stop at McClusky as they ride along Highway 200 during the warm months.
- Enjoy hunting? We have small game, upland game and big game. Get a copy of PLOTS (Private Land Open to Sportsmen) to identify which private landowners open their land to hunters. Printed guides are available at local businesses.